On Monday, US President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders and directives, aiming to shape his administration’s policies across various sectors, including energy, immigration, and criminal pardons.
Mass Pardons
Trump granted clemency to approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, demonstrating his continued support for those who sought to overturn his 2020 election defeat. “We hope they come out tonight, frankly,” Trump stated, referring to the released individuals. The pardons also included 14 members of far-right groups, such as the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, convicted of serious offenses, including seditious conspiracy. Additionally, the directive orders the attorney general to drop pending cases related to the incident.
Tackling Immigration
Donald Trump declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, labeling criminal cartels as terrorist organizations and taking aim at birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. He also suspended the refugee resettlement program for four months to reassess security protocols, stating, “The United States lacks the ability to absorb large numbers of migrants.”
Reversing Biden Policies
Speaking at a rally, Trump revoked 78 executive orders enacted by the Biden administration, covering topics from pandemic relief to climate initiatives. “I’ll revoke nearly 80 destructive and radical executive actions of the previous administration,” he declared, adding that his administration would preserve records related to alleged political persecution under Biden.
Diversity Rollbacks
Trump also rescinded numerous diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and policies that supported LGBTQ+ rights and racial equity, arguing that such measures were divisive.
TikTok Ban Delay
An executive order postponed the ban on TikTok for 75 days, with the administration seeking to reassess its approach to the popular short-video platform.
Government Hiring and Regulations Freeze
Trump imposed a hiring freeze across federal agencies and halted new regulations, ordering federal employees to return to full-time, in-person work. “We will freeze regulations and ensure we’re hiring only competent people dedicated to the American public,” he announced.
Combating Inflation
To address inflation, Donald Trump ordered agencies to implement emergency measures aimed at lowering costs by reducing regulations and removing climate policies seen as contributing to rising prices.
Climate Policy Changes
Trump formally withdrew the US from the Paris Climate Agreement, reversing policies aimed at curbing fossil fuel use. The administration also lifted restrictions on oil drilling in Arctic lands and revoked electric vehicle mandates, emphasizing the importance of energy independence.
Public Health Changes
Another order signaled the US withdrawal from the World Health Organization, citing its alleged failures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The administration plans to overhaul public health policy with vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. nominated for a top health position.
Efficiency and Deep State Crackdown
Donald Trump established the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), headed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, with the goal of streamlining federal operations and cutting government jobs.
Free Speech Protections
An executive order aimed at “restoring freedom of speech” was signed to counter perceived government censorship of online platforms under the guise of combating misinformation.
Energy Independence Efforts
Trump declared a national energy emergency and committed to maximizing oil and gas production. He emphasized filling strategic oil reserves and expanding exports, arguing that the shift would lower prices and boost national security.
These sweeping executive actions mark a significant departure from the policies of the previous administration, reflecting Trump’s long-standing priorities and campaign promises.
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